The Los Angeles Lakers’ recent move to bring Austin Reaves off the bench has sparked lively discussions within the Lakers’ fan base and the broader NBA community. Once loved by fans when he joined the team in 2021, Reaves reached new heights. He earned a starting role towards the end of the 2023–24 season. Anticipation for a lucrative free-agency contract was high. However, this season has seen Reaves struggle to reach the expected heights. Consequently, the Lakers coaching staff, in an effort to optimize team dynamics, has made the bold decision to have Reaves come off the bench. This move not only prompted discussions among fans but also received a vote of confidence from former Lakers champion Danny Green.
Lakers Witnessing Reaves’ Rise and Fall
Austin Reaves initially captured the hearts of Lakers fans. He enjoyed a breakout period as a starter in the latter part of the 2023–24 season. The expectations for the talented guard were high, with many foreseeing a significant payday in free agency. However, this season has presented a different scenario. The coaching staff, tasked with handling the offensive prowess of LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and D’Angelo Russell, found it fitting to redefine Reaves’ role for the benefit of the team as a whole. The decision to shift Reaves to the bench sparked discussions among Lakers faithful. Nevertheless, Danny Green, sharing his insights on FanDuel’s Run It Back, endorsed the coaching staff’s strategic move.
Green pointed out that playmakers like Russell and James dominate ball possession in the starting unit. Having Reaves as the team’s sixth man adds a new dimension to the Lakers’ offensive strategy, providing a spark and an additional aggressor off the bench. Despite the change in role, Reaves’ usage rate has demonstrated remarkable stability. It only marginally dropped from 21.1 percent as a starter to 21.0 percent in his new role as the sixth man. This shift, however, has brought a more balanced rotation to the Lakers. It prevents a substantial dip in performance when LeBron James takes a well-deserved breather.
Team Facing Adjustments And Team Dynamics
Since his recent move to the bench a few weeks ago, Austin Reaves has been going through an adjustment period. While the guard has thrived in his new role, the Lakers are still fine-tuning the specifics of his position on the team. Regarded as one of the essential components in the Lakers’ puzzle, the responsibility now rests on head coach Darvin Ham’s shoulders. He must decipher the optimal way to integrate Reaves into the team’s overall strategy. According to Jovan Buha of The Athletic, whether starting or coming off the bench, the Lakers have yet to unlock the full potential of Reaves this season. Determining the best utilization of his skills has become a top priority for the team. They aim to navigate the challenges of the ongoing season more effectively.
Despite facing some challenges this season, with averages of 13.7 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game, Reaves acknowledges areas where he can improve. His three-point shooting, at just 31.3 percent, has been a particular point of concern. Speaking on the matter, Reaves expressed confidence in his abilities. He stated that while he likes the shots he’s taken, they simply haven’t fallen as expected. As the Lakers strive for another NBA title, the strategic utilization of Austin Reaves continues to be a puzzle the coaching staff is actively solving. With former champion Danny Green’s support, the Lakers are in the process of fine-tuning their approach. Additionally, a dedicated Reaves is eager to contribute more effectively to the team’s strategy. They are actively seeking the winning formula. This formula positions Reaves as a valuable sixth man in their pursuit of championship glory.